APPLETON, Wis. — Actor and Wisconsin native Willem Dafoe was honored Monday with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
He received the star in the category of Motion Pictures.
“When I was a kid growing up in Appleton, Wisconsin, believe me, I couldn’t envision this day of getting a star on the Walk of Fame,” Dafoe said in a speech.
Dafoe, 68, has made over one hundred films in his career, including “John Wick,” “Finding Nemo,” “Spider-Man: No Way Home,” “Aquaman,” “Platoon” and more. His most recent film, which is in theatres now, is “Poor Things.”
Before making it to Hollywood, Dafoe attended Appleton East High School and later studied drama at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. He recently returned to his alma mater in 2022 to give a commencement speech.
During his Walk of Fame speech on Monday, Dafoe said his star wasn’t the only one with Appleton ties.
“Someone else from that town has a star. And his name was Erik Weisz. You know who that is? Maybe you know him better by the name of Harry Houdini,” Dafoe said. “So I’m in good company.”
"Oh, god. I can't stop smiling." Watch Willem Dafoe's full speech at his Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony: pic.twitter.com/SZ1jkEzFQT
— Variety (@Variety) January 8, 2024
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce administers the Hollywood Walk of Fame for the City of Los Angeles and has hosted the ceremony for decades. Millions have visited the historic landmark since 1960.
Dafoe was the first to be recognized in 2024 with a Walk of Fame star.
“Willem Dafoe is an immensely talented and versatile actor who has become a prominent figure in the film industry. He has captivated audiences with his remarkable performances, often portraying characters with a unique intensity and complexity,” said Ana Martinez, producer of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, in a press release.